I liked the Leake signing, in theory it was what the Cardinals needed at the time. I also like trading him. I don't think that dumping his contract is going to affect signing Lynn in any way.

I tend to think that the Cardinals will be fine if they let Lynn walk, but with Wainwright aging and having some arm issues this year it would probably be good to go after Lynn if it's feasible. You also have Reyes coming off TJ surgery next year, so an innings guy will probably be a good idea to have around. One thing we know, the Cardinals are unlikely to overpay for Lynn.

The good news is Weaver and or Flaherty are going to get some good seasoning in the last part of this season.

I really hope they make Lynn a competitive offer to stay. He's fiery & speaks his mind, we need more guys like that on our team. Like you said, with Waino aging and maybe having a year left, we need a veteran presence for our young guys that can also eat up innings.

During the off season, I hope we make a move to get a true middle of the order bat & bolster our bullpen. We have a glut of outfielders between the bigs and AAA, time to make some moves with them and get something good in return.

I'm excited for Flaherty's start tonight. His numbers in the minors this year have been spectacular, especially when you consider how hitter friendly most of the parks are in the PCL, and how much of a band box the park in Springfield is.

Here's to some trades and upgrades for next year. I really enjoy this thread even in rough years. Thanks to you all.

Should be an interesting offseason for the Cards. They have a lot of decisions to make and I am sure the GM knows if they are going to compete something has to change. From my perspective they have to move some of their outfielders. I say you move Pham to center, Dex to left and pray Piscotty can bounce back and be more productive. They have to address the closer role, and honestly I think they have to address the starting rotation as well. Most of all I think they have to get a slugger in the middle of the order, but I doubt they shell out the cash for one.

This closer thing is going to be interesting to watch. I think we may see a current starter move to the back end of the bullpen, Iím thinking Alex Reyes or possibly Wacha. I could see Wacha being very effective there. Of course I have no idea what Iím talking about but itís fun to navel gaze.

Between the two the Cardinals can put the better prospect package on the table but this is a different situation. Itís not about what the Marlins want for Stanton. Itís about where Stanton wants to go more than anything else. From stuff I have read it seems like he values going to a winner.

The deal, first reported by SiriusXM, is pending a physical. In return, the Marlins will receive right-handed pitching prospect Sandy Alcantara, outfielder Magneuris Sierra, right-hander Zac Gallen and lefty Daniel Castano, according to the Miami Herald.